The AUSA/ SPHN joint symposium on PTSD and TBI on Sept. 2nd was a success.  There were representatives from the military at Fort Bliss, the El Paso Police Dept., EMS, the El Paso Chamber, TriWest Healthcare Alliance and WBAMC. The focus of the symposium was to raise community awareness.

The conference began with MG Bromberg the Commander of Fort Bliss. He gave us an overview of the initiatives on Fort Bliss to combat PTSD and help the soldiers and their families who are in need. He also remarked about the importance of increasing community awareness and working together on such an important issue.

Dr. Fortunato from Ft. Bliss spoke next. He spoke about his one of a kind PTSD treatment facility “The Restoration and Resilience Center.” This center been recognized by the Chief of Staff of the Army and others for its ground breaking work in the treatment of PTSD.

Patricia Driscoll of the “Armed Services Foundation” presented next. The “Armed Services Foundation” is a charity organization with an annual operating budget of over 8 million dollars. She also spoke of the book that she has co-authored titled “Hidden Battles on Unseen Fronts”, which details the stories of military service members and their family’s personal struggles with PTSD.

Dr. Chaffee from TriWest Healthcare Alliance spoke next and gave the audience information on new online Behavioral Health resources available to Tricare beneficiaries. He also spoke of Tricare’s dedication to helping those with PTSD and their families.